Article
Best SSN Protection Services in 2025
Safeguard your Social Security number from identity thieves with comprehensive monitoring and alerts. Our experts tested SSN protection features, dark web scanning, and recovery support.
Your Social Security number is the master key to your identity. Criminals use stolen SSNs to file fraudulent tax returns, open credit accounts, obtain medical services, and commit employment fraud. In 2024 alone, over 800,000 Americans reported SSN-related identity theft, resulting in billions in losses.
Our team tested the leading SSN protection services, evaluating monitoring coverage, alert systems, dark web scanning, and recovery support. Here are the best services to safeguard your Social Security number in 2025.
Quick Comparison
| Service | Best For | From/Month | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Aura | Best Overall SSN Protection | $9.00 | ★4.9/5 |
| 2. IDShield | Best Recovery Support | $14.95 | ★4.8/5 |
| 3. LifeLock | Best Brand Recognition | $11.99 | ★4.7/5 |
| 4. Identity Guard | Best AI-Powered Monitoring | $6.67 | ★4.7/5 |
| 5. IdentityForce | Best Comprehensive Monitoring | $16.66 | ★4.6/5 |
| 6. IdentityIQ | Best Budget Option | $6.99 | ★4.5/5 |
| 7. McAfee Total Protection | Best Security Bundle | $4.17 | ★4.4/5 |
| 8. Experian IdentityWorks | Best Credit Bureau Service | $24.99 | ★4.4/5 |
| 9. E-Verify Self Lock | Best Free Government Tool | Free | ★4.2/5 |
| 10. SSA Direct Deposit Block | Best Social Security Benefits Protection | Free | ★4/5 |
Our Top Picks in Detail
Aura
Aura delivers the most comprehensive SSN protection by combining real-time dark web monitoring, data broker removal, and identity theft insurance up to $5M. Their White Glove restoration team and all-in-one approach make them the gold standard for Social Security number protection.
Pros
- ✓Real-time SSN monitoring across dark web
- ✓Removes SSN from 140+ data broker sites
- ✓Up to $5M identity theft insurance
- ✓VPN, antivirus, password manager included
- ✓14-day free trial, no credit card required
Cons
- ✗Renewal rates higher than first year
- ✗May be complex for basic needs
- ✗US-only data removal service
IDShield
IDShield assigns licensed private investigators to each customer, providing unmatched recovery support when your SSN is compromised. With $3M insurance and monitoring for criminal SSN misuse, they excel at both prevention and restoration.
Pros
- ✓Licensed private investigators assigned
- ✓Monitors criminal use of SSN
- ✓Up to $3M identity theft insurance
- ✓Reputation management included
- ✓30-day free trial available
Cons
- ✗Higher pricing than competitors
- ✗No annual discount option
- ✗VPN limited to mobile devices only
LifeLock
LifeLock by Norton is the most recognized name in SSN protection, offering comprehensive monitoring integrated with Norton 360 cybersecurity. Their synthetic identity theft protection and extensive monitoring of 120+ data points provide thorough Social Security number safeguarding.
Pros
- ✓Industry leader with decades of experience
- ✓Monitors 120+ identity data points
- ✓Norton 360 antivirus bundle available
- ✓Up to $1M reimbursement coverage
- ✓Synthetic ID theft protection
Cons
- ✗Prices increase after first year
- ✗More expensive than alternatives
- ✗Some features only in top-tier plans
Identity Guard
Identity Guard leverages IBM Watson AI technology for advanced SSN threat detection, identifying patterns humans might miss. Their family plans covering unlimited children make them ideal for protecting entire households' Social Security numbers at an affordable price.
Pros
- ✓IBM Watson AI threat detection
- ✓Family plans cover 5 adults + unlimited kids
- ✓25+ years of industry experience
- ✓Data removal service included
- ✓60-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- ✗No VPN included in plans
- ✗Annual commitment for best pricing
- ✗Some features limited to higher tiers
IdentityForce
IdentityForce extends SSN monitoring beyond traditional sources to include social media, court records, and public databases. Their no-deductible insurance policy covering up to $2M and extensive monitoring make them ideal for comprehensive Social Security number protection.
Pros
- ✓Monitors social media for SSN exposure
- ✓Court records and sex offender registry tracking
- ✓No deductibles on insurance claims
- ✓Personalized Identity Safety Score
- ✓256-bit AES encryption protection
Cons
- ✗Higher pricing than many competitors
- ✗VPN mobile-only limitation
- ✗Fewer bundled features than some
IdentityIQ
IdentityIQ offers essential SSN protection at the most affordable price point, making identity theft prevention accessible to everyone. While their entry-level plan has fewer features than premium competitors, it includes dark web monitoring and SSN alerts at just $6.99/month.
Pros
- ✓Most affordable entry-level pricing
- ✓SSN alerts in basic plan
- ✓Up to $1M stolen funds reimbursement
- ✓File sharing network monitoring
- ✓Flexible plan options
Cons
- ✗Credit monitoring only in mid-tier plans
- ✗Fewer features than premium services
- ✗Less comprehensive data broker coverage
McAfee Total Protection
McAfee combines SSN monitoring with comprehensive cybersecurity tools including antivirus for unlimited devices, VPN, and password management. Their integration with TransUnion and monitoring of 60+ data types makes this the best value for users wanting all-in-one digital security.
Pros
- ✓Monitors 60+ personal information types
- ✓Unlimited device antivirus included
- ✓Up to $2M insurance plus ransomware coverage
- ✓VPN and password manager included
- ✓Best value for full security suite
Cons
- ✗Annual payment required for best pricing
- ✗Second year pricing increases
- ✗Less advanced features than dedicated services
Experian IdentityWorks
Experian IdentityWorks offers unique SSN protection directly from a major credit bureau, providing authoritative monitoring and extensive dark web surveillance across 600,000+ sites. While pricier than competitors, their direct bureau access and FICO tools offer distinct advantages.
Pros
- ✓Direct from major credit bureau
- ✓Monitors 600,000+ dark web sites
- ✓FICO score simulator included
- ✓U.S.-based fraud resolution team
- ✓7-day free trial available
Cons
- ✗Most expensive option reviewed
- ✗Month-to-month only, no annual discount
- ✗Non-Experian scores updated quarterly
E-Verify Self Lock
E-Verify Self Lock is a free government service that prevents anyone from using your Social Security number in the E-Verify employment verification system. While limited in scope compared to comprehensive services, it provides valuable zero-cost protection against employment fraud.
Pros
- ✓Completely free government service
- ✓Prevents unauthorized employment with SSN
- ✓You control unlock anytime
- ✓No identity theft if SSN used in E-Verify
- ✓Simple online management
Cons
- ✗Only covers E-Verify employment system
- ✗No dark web or credit monitoring
- ✗Limited to employment fraud prevention
SSA Direct Deposit Block
The SSA Direct Deposit Block prevents anyone, including you, from changing your Social Security benefits direct deposit or address through online or phone channels. While inconvenient for legitimate changes, it provides strong protection against benefit theft for vulnerable seniors and disability recipients.
Pros
- ✓Free through Social Security Administration
- ✓Prevents unauthorized benefit changes
- ✓Blocks direct deposit fraud
- ✓Protects address changes
- ✓Direct from SSA
Cons
- ✗Only protects SSA account, not SSN generally
- ✗Must visit office to make changes
- ✗No proactive monitoring of SSN misuse
How We Evaluate SSN Protection Services
Our comprehensive evaluation process tests every critical aspect of SSN protection:
Monitoring Coverage
We assess where and how services track your SSN:
- Dark web scanning: Frequency and depth of criminal marketplace monitoring
- Credit applications: Tracking SSN use for new credit accounts
- Public records: Court filings, property records, address changes
- Employment verification: Monitoring unauthorized job applications with your SSN
- Payday loans: Tracking predatory lending using your Social Security number
- Medical services: Detecting fraudulent healthcare using your identity
- Tax fraud: Identifying suspicious tax filing with your SSN
Alert Systems
We evaluate notification quality and speed:
- Real-time vs delayed SSN alerts
- Multi-channel delivery (email, SMS, app push notifications)
- Alert customization and filtering options
- False positive rates and accuracy
- Actionable guidance with each alert
Data Exposure Prevention
We analyze proactive protection measures:
- Data broker removal to eliminate SSN exposure
- Dark web monitoring before criminals use your SSN
- Public records opt-out assistance
- Social media monitoring for accidental SSN sharing
- File sharing network surveillance
Recovery and Restoration
We examine support when SSN is compromised:
- Specialist expertise and availability
- Guidance on reporting SSN theft to authorities
- Assistance freezing credit and benefits
- Help obtaining new SSN when necessary
- Insurance coverage for fraud losses
What Is SSN Protection?
How SSN Monitoring Works
SSN protection services monitor for unauthorized use of your Social Security number by:
- Scanning dark web marketplaces where stolen SSNs are bought and sold
- Tracking credit applications that use your SSN
- Monitoring public databases for misuse in court records, employment, etc.
- Watching for payday loans and predatory lending with your SSN
- Alerting to suspicious activity so you can respond quickly
Why Your SSN Needs Protection
Your Social Security number enables criminals to:
- File fraudulent tax returns to steal your refund
- Open credit cards and loans in your name
- Obtain medical services using your insurance
- Commit employment fraud by working under your identity
- Access government benefits meant for you
- Create synthetic identities combining your SSN with fake information
Types of SSN Fraud
Tax-Related Identity Theft
Criminals file fake tax returns with your SSN before you file, stealing your refund. The IRS offers Identity Protection PINs (IP PINs) as additional safeguards.
Employment Fraud
Illegal workers or criminals use stolen SSNs to gain employment. You may discover this when receiving IRS notices about unreported income or when applying for benefits.
Medical Identity Theft
Fraudsters use your SSN and insurance to obtain medical care, prescription drugs, or file false claims. This can contaminate your medical records with incorrect information.
Benefits Fraud
Thieves may change your Social Security direct deposit information or address to redirect benefits payments to themselves.
Synthetic Identity Theft
Criminals combine your real SSN with fake names and addresses to create new identities, opening accounts that may not appear on your credit report initially.
Free SSN Protection Tools
E-Verify Self Lock
The government’s free E-Verify Self Lock prevents use of your SSN in the E-Verify employment verification system. While limited in scope, it’s valuable zero-cost protection.
How to use:
- Visit e-verify.gov/mye-verify
- Create an account with personal information
- Lock your SSN with one click
- Unlock anytime for legitimate employment
Social Security Administration Protections
My Social Security Account:
- Monitor your earnings record for fraudulent employment
- Check benefit estimates and status
- Set up “Do Not Contact” preferences
Direct Deposit Block:
- Prevents anyone from changing your benefit payment information
- Requires in-person visit to local office for changes
IRS Identity Protection PIN
Request a 6-digit IP PIN from the IRS to prevent tax identity theft. Required for all tax filings, it blocks fraudulent returns.
How to get:
- Visit irs.gov/ippin
- Verify identity through online tool
- Receive new PIN each January
Protecting Your SSN: Best Practices
Limit SSN Sharing
Only provide your Social Security number when legally required:
- Required: Employers, financial institutions, government agencies, tax preparers
- Often unnecessary: Doctors’ offices, insurance (use policy number), schools, retailers
Ask why your SSN is needed and if alternatives exist.
Secure Physical Documents
- Shred documents containing your SSN
- Store Social Security card in secure location, not wallet
- Don’t carry card unless absolutely necessary for specific transaction
- Use locked filing cabinet for tax returns and financial records
Monitor for Unauthorized Use
- Review credit reports for accounts you didn’t open
- Check Social Security earnings record annually at ssa.gov
- Watch for IRS notices about unreported income
- Monitor medical Explanation of Benefits for services you didn’t receive
Respond Quickly to Breaches
If your SSN is exposed in a data breach:
- Freeze your credit at all three major bureaus
- File taxes early to beat potential fraudsters
- Request IP PIN from IRS
- Consider identity theft protection service
- Monitor accounts extra carefully
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SSN protection?
SSN protection services monitor for unauthorized use of your Social Security number across credit applications, dark web marketplaces, public records, and other databases. They alert you when your SSN is used suspiciously and provide recovery assistance if identity theft occurs, helping prevent fraud before it damages your finances and credit.
How much does SSN protection cost?
SSN protection ranges from free government tools (E-Verify Self Lock, SSA protections) to $7-25 per month for comprehensive commercial services. Most identity theft protection plans include SSN monitoring alongside credit monitoring, dark web scanning, and insurance coverage. Budget options start around $7/month, while premium services with extensive features cost $15-25 monthly.
Can I monitor my SSN for free?
Yes, use free tools including E-Verify Self Lock (prevents employment fraud), IRS IP PIN (blocks tax fraud), and My Social Security account (monitors earnings). Check your credit reports free at annualcreditreport.com to detect SSN misuse. However, paid services offer more comprehensive monitoring, dark web scanning, and recovery support.
How do I know if my SSN is being used?
Signs your SSN is compromised include: credit reports showing accounts you didn’t open, IRS rejection of your tax return claiming duplicate filing, bills for medical services you didn’t receive, denied benefits due to excess earnings, or calls about jobs you didn’t apply for. Monitor credit reports and SSA earnings record regularly.
What should I do if my SSN is stolen?
Immediately: (1) freeze your credit at all bureaus, (2) report to FTC at IdentityTheft.gov, (3) file police report, (4) notify IRS and request IP PIN, (5) review credit reports and dispute fraudulent accounts, (6) contact Social Security Administration, (7) consider identity theft protection service for ongoing monitoring and recovery support.
Can I get a new Social Security number?
The Social Security Administration rarely issues new SSNs and only in extreme cases of ongoing misuse causing significant harm despite other protective measures. You must provide evidence of misuse and harassment. A new SSN doesn’t erase your credit history or solve all problems, as old and new numbers remain linked.
How does dark web SSN monitoring work?
Dark web monitoring services scan criminal marketplaces, forums, and data dump sites where stolen SSNs are bought and sold. Using specialized software and access to hidden networks, they search for your Social Security number and alert you if it appears, allowing you to take protective action before criminals use it.
Is SSN protection worth it?
SSN protection is worthwhile for most people given the severe consequences of Social Security number theft. While free tools provide basic protection, comprehensive services offer dark web monitoring, data broker removal, and recovery support that would cost hundreds of hours to replicate yourself. The average SSN theft case takes 200+ hours to resolve.